Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing doesn't have one set meaning. We might use it to talk about how we feel, how well we're coping with daily life or what feels possible at the moment.
Good mental wellbeing doesn't mean you're always happy or unaffected by your experiences. But poor mental wellbeing can make it more difficult to cope with daily life. (Mind.org.uk)
The meaning of wellbeing is multidimensional
An overall sense of wellness will not be achieved without having a balance in these key elements:
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Physical. This includes lifestyle choices that affect the functioning of our bodies. What we eat and how active we are will affect our physical wellbeing.
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Emotional or psychological. This is our ability to cope with everyday life and reflects how we think and feel about ourselves.
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Social. This is the extent that we feel a sense of belonging and social inclusion. The way we communicate with others, our relationships, values, beliefs, lifestyles and traditions are all important factors of social wellbeing.
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Spiritual. This is the ability to experience and integrate meaning and purpose in life. Achieved through being connected to our inner self, to nature or even a greater power.
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Intellectual. It is important to gain and maintain intellectual wellness as it helps us to expand our knowledge and skills in order to live an enjoyable and successful life.
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Economic. Economic wellness, in short, is our ability to meet our basic needs and feel a sense of security.
The world we live in is complex. Understanding the requirement of wellness and the factors that influence this state, whether as an individual, community or nation, helps us to work together to improve the quality of our lifestyles.
Five simple ways to improve our overall wellness are:
Connect – talk and listen to others and always live in the moment.
Be active – do what you can and enjoy what you do.
Take notice – remember the simple things that give you joy.
Keep learning – embrace new experiences and seek new opportunities.
Give – give people your time, your words and your presence.